Neetzan Zimmerman

Acura today released a standard-issue "we're sorry you were offended" apology after TMZ reported that an ad agency hired by the company specifically sought out African Americans who were "not too dark" to star in the luxury vehicle brand's Super Bowl ad.

"We apologize to anyone offended by the language on the casting sheet used in the selection of actors for one of our commercials," Acura said its statement, adding that "appropriate measures" were being taken to "ensure that such language is not used again in association with any work performed on behalf of our brand."

In casting the Super Bowl spot, which stars Jerry Seinfeld and Jay Leno, the agency requested that African Americans auditioning for the role of the dealer by "nice looking, friendly, not too dark."